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Roma signing Rodrigo Mora says growing up he idolised new team-mate Dybala

ยทBy Junior Yekini
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Roma signing Rodrigo Mora says growing up he idolised new team-mate Dybala

AS Roma/X.com

Rodrigo Mora grew up idolising a player he'll now share a dressing room with, and said so in his first Roma interview.

Speaking to the club's official channels after completing a โ‚ฌ25m move from Porto, with a further 50% of his economic rights retained by the Portuguese club subject to a future sale, the 19-year-old reflected on the prospect of lining up alongside Paulo Dybala.

"During my childhood I grew up watching Dybala a lot, and now being able to play alongside him is something very gratifying for me," Mora said.

"That's why I really want to play with him and get to know him. My technical strength? I think my ability to get away from opponents in tight situations is my main strength."

The attacking midfielder also addressed his excitement at working under AS Roma head coach Gian Piero Gasperini, whose tactical preferences appear tailor-made for his own game.

"I really want to work with the coach. I think he likes number 10s a lot, and I like playing in that role. I think we'll get on well," he said.

Asked about his previous experience of Rome, Mora recalled facing the club as an opponent and being struck by the atmosphere at the Stadio Olimpico.

"I remember the fans, they made an impression on me. It's a very passionate, very loud crowd. What struck me was the noise from the fans. That was a difficult game which Roma won, but what impressed me most was the fans," he said.

With his first taste of Champions League football now within reach, Mora described the competition as a long-held ambition finally coming into view.

"It's something I've always dreamed of. I haven't had the opportunity yet and I know I'm still young, but it was a dream and a goal of mine. I'm very happy and I can't wait to play in the Champions League," he said.